1950s Brighton memories

The Rocket from Space

By Alan Spicer

Exploring in the woods

Whilst out with my Dad (who was rather deaf) we were exploring north of Mill Road roundabout in the woods to the left of the railway line, having crossed the little bridge. I was around seven or eight years old at the time, and Dad strode ahead, me following on, taking in my surroundings. My eyes were drawn to some alloy fins sticking out of the ground covered by heavy moss. I called out to Dad, but he did not hear me. So not wishing to lose what I thought might be 'The Rocket from Space' I grasped it firmly and yanked it from its resting place.

Dad turned a light grey

Running after Dad I soon caught up and proudly produced my find. The result was alarming, as my Father's usual ruddy complexion turned a light grey as he sank to the ground, perspiring heavily and clutching my prize. Then he put it on the ground beside him and said nothing for what seemed ages. I suppose he was trying to compose himself after the shock.

A WWII mortar bomb

Eventually he got himself together and explained that I had found a WW2 mortar bomb. After a while he threw it with all his might some distance into the trees. Incidentally my Dad was an ex-Royal Engineer. There was no bang and thankfully nothing happened. Maybe the bomb is still there in a somewhat decayed state. After that experience I never touched another one. But I did call out the police when I found another ‘Rocket from Space’ whilst black-berrying near the Beacon in the mid 1970s with my young sons.